Sunday Spin 16th Feb 2025

After our usual briefing on the route we left Spawell S/S heading towards the Sally Gap. It was a pity to see the builders' rubbish scattered along the roadside near the stone cross at Ballinascorney. (A photo point some years back) It was disgraceful, shame on those who dumped it there.....no civic pride!

As we climbed into the hills we ran into patches of mist, with visibility restricting our speed. At times we didn't get out of third gear. It can be difficult to spot wildlife in those conditions. The deer can't see you and you can't see them. On occasions we got glimpses of the countryside and the sun did its best to shine on us, but it wasn't to be.

The car parks at all the entrances to the forests were packed with cars.....the walkers were out in force. What will it be like in a few weeks time I wonder.

Coming through Laragh we lost one member due to the amount of bikes out and about. It's easy to follow a group of bikes, or bike not in our group, which is what happened......easy done. He met up with us later in Woodenbridge.

We stopped in Aughrim to facilitate the smokers in the group. Sean Ryan met up with us here and rode to Arklow with the group on his 125cc Benelli.

The South east members Dee, Teddy, Frank, Vincent and Annette were first to arrive at the golf club. Vincent and Frank got a bit of a ribbing as both of their bikes were spotlessly clean......like new ! They took it all in the spirit it was intended. Two well kept bikes.

Considering the manager was informed in advance that a group of 28 people would be sitting down for food the service was initially slow.

After our meal a jolly elderly woman who was dining there approached some of us and said “ I hope you don't think I'm nosey , but where are you from” We informed her we were a nation wide club in existence for over fifty years......She was impressed. “Oh I’d give anything to be on the back of one of those bikes” she said. Apparently she spent many years riding pillion on her husband's bike and wished she could still be doing so. Some of us could relate to her !

There was plenty of discussion during the meal on the upcoming F.I.M. Moto camp in Lucon, France on the 6/9th. August. Looks like the club will be well represented at it.

There was also interest in the new club “MYSTERY 500” event in May. With the Spanish trip at an advanced stage all is looking good . Members will be spoiled for choice this year.

The duration of the route was approx two hours traveling on roads with very little traffic. It was good to see Dee back on her bike again.

Thanks to all who supported the run and hopefully all got home safe and dry. Until the next run, stay safe.

Jim.